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Today, in this article we will show you how to Protect Your Computer from Malware. Malware is an abbreviation for “bad software.” It has viruses and spyware that are put on your computer or smartphone without your permission. These programs can make your device crash, and they can also be used to track and control what you do online.
Malware can get on computers and other devices in many different ways, and it comes in many different forms, like viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, and more. It can look like a lot of different things. Most people have heard of computer viruses, which get their name from the fact that they spread by making copies of themselves.
Worms have the same trait. Others, like spyware, get their names from what they do: Spyware sends personal information, like credit card numbers, to other desktop computers. You can also go to the official Microsoft support site to know more information.
Ways to Protect Your Computer from Malware
Avoid Spam
Don’t open any kind of spam while you’re on the Internet. Remember spam isn’t just emails in your junk mail. It could also be private messages, pop-up windows on websites, or ads in your social media feeds. Malware scams can also begin even if your computer isn’t on.
Don’t forget the recent phone scam with Microsoft Tech Support. Variants not only wanted your money, but they also tried to take control of your computer by tricking you into installing remote control software. Be wary of both online and offline offers of tech support that you didn’t ask for.
Passwords in Web Browsers
No matter who you are, you should never store passwords in your web browser. Using a password manager makes your account safer and adds another layer of security.
Trend Micro Password Manager comes with Trend Micro Maximum Security or Trend Micro Premium Security Suite on your PC, or you can download and install it separately on your PC, Mac, Android, or iOS device. If you don’t already have a password manager, watch our video “How secure is your password?” for tips on how to make a secure password.
Secure Your Network
Malware protection starts with your home network and moves out from there. Make sure your network router has a password and that you aren’t using the default password that came with it from the factory.
Make sure that every computer you use has a firewall installed and running to stop people from getting in who shouldn’t. A secure network is not only the first step in protecting your computers, but also the mobile devices that connect to your home network.
Parental Controls
It’s important to talk with your kids honestly and earn their trust. You should also put parental controls on every device your family uses on the network. Make sure that only administrators can add new software to the device, and if you can, restrict guest users’ access to the Internet.
Keep Programs Up-to-Date
Make sure that all of your devices are up-to-date to protect them from attacks that take advantage of flaws in your system. This includes your operating system, security programs, web browsers, and plug-ins like Java, Adobe Flash, and Acrobat, as well as video players like Windows Media Player and QuickTime.
FAQ
How will I keep my computer safe from malware?
Installing antivirus software like Bitdefender, Norton, or Kaspersky is the best way to protect against malware. Antivirus software helps stop malware from getting on your computer and can also get rid of malware that is already there.
Can malware destroy a PC?
At the same time, the virus is wreaking havoc: it can damage programs, delete files, and make terrible changes to your hard drive, all of which can slow your computer down. Some viruses can even cause your whole computer to crash.
How common is malware on PC?
Every day, there are 560,000 new pieces of malware that are found. More than a billion bad programs are now out there. Four businesses are hit by ransomware attacks every minute. 58% of all computer malware is made up of Trojans.